Pneumonia multi-factorial disease is caused by a range of bacteria, viruses and mycoplasmas.
The autumn-calving season is well underway in autumn-calving herds, and keeping calves healthy is a priority for farmers. Pneumonia can cause damage to the lungs of a calf, which may impact that calf's performance in later life.Pneumonia in calves
Pneumonia can be caused by several factors, including the presence of bacteria and viruses, the environment and the immune status of the animal.Environmental factors that can cause pneumonia include low environmental temperatures, high humidity, poor ventilation and direct draughts.
It can also be caused due to increased stress placed on the calf such as mixing groups, movement and poor housing conditions which can also affect immune status.One of the most important steps to prevent pneumonia in calves, is to ensure they receive adequate amounts of high quality colostrum. This helps the calf to fight off disease.
If pneumonia has been an issue in the past on your farm, you should discuss with your vet some control measures;these might include modifications to the calf shed or a vaccination programme.Clinical signs
There are two types of pneumonia seen in calves, acute (calf or enzootic) and chronic. Symptoms of acute pneumonia include:- Reduction in feeding;
- Dull demeanour;
- Dropping of the head;
- Increased respiratory rate;
- Nasal discharge;
- Cough;
- Raised temperature.
